A new sidewalk system taking shape in Foley’s Mills community will provide residents with improved pedestrian access to other parts of the city while addressing drainage issues along several local roads.

Construction is underway on 8,700 feet of concrete sidewalk connecting the community to areas farther east. The project will begin near the site of the Mills Park, which is also under construction, and extend along Mills Road, Little Rock Road, Airport Road, Dailey Lane and Baldwin County 65.

Along with the sidewalks, the city is making drainage improvements along the routes to help address water management in the community.

The project is part of Foley’s ongoing efforts to incorporate the Mills community into the city following its 2023 annexation. Residents living in the area outside Foley voted to join the city, prompting plans for improvements that include the new park and pedestrian infrastructure.

Since the annexation, city officials have worked to advance both projects. Planning and design for the sidewalk system included efforts to preserve mature trees along the proposed routes.

Foley officials also worked with members of the Mills Community Action Group for several years to secure the rights of way needed to complete the sidewalk and drainage improvements.

The project is expected to be completed in summer 2027.

The Mills improvements are among several sidewalk projects underway in Foley as the city continues expanding its pedestrian network.

Crews are nearing completion of a sidewalk along Alabama 59 between Pride Drive and Azalea Avenue. That stretch will finish a larger project providing pedestrian access along approximately 4 miles of the highway, from Miflin Road (Baldwin County 20) north to Peachtree Avenue.

Another sidewalk project along Cedar Street has extended the walkway from 9th Avenue to West Peachtree Avenue, covering approximately 3 miles. Future construction will continue north from West Peachtree Avenue to Village Square Boulevard.